At just 23 years of age, Jaine has demonstrated his skill and potential on various stages. He became a regular fixture in the domestic leagues in Colombia with Deportes Quindío and represented Colombia that same year with the U-17 team at the age of 16. In 2015 Jaine was one the players called up to the U23 national team by Carlos “Piscis” Restrepo to fight for a spot in the Rio Olympics. That team would eventually advance to the quarter finals of the tournament before bowing out to Brazil, the eventual gold medal winner. A transfer abroad to Liga MX side Atlas would soon follow. Jaine has settled in and adjusted quickly to life in Mexico and the style of play in Liga MX. We had the pleasure of talking to Jaine in an informal interview to get to know a bit more about el General Barreiro; here’s what we learned about our crack commanding the defensive line for Atlas in Guadalajara.

Growing up Jaine had a strong support system. His family has always backed him to succeed and helped him be where he is today. His development as a footballer was the work of many individuals, but he mentions three men in particular as key figures; Nilton and Willian Viajará, and “el profe” Giovani Rojas. With Deportes Quindío he experienced both the thrill of a championship and promotion to top flight football as well as what he recalls as the hardest moments as a footballer, the disappointment of relegation. These experiences keep him focused on his goals and humble as both a footballer and a person.

In Guadalajara he has quickly become a fan favorite due to his joy for the game, performances on the pitch, and contagious personality. The team has shown steady progression since his arrival and are poised to make another good run during the 2017 Apertura season. Atlas won’t be taken lightly by any opponent. Jaine has reiterated his goal is to end the championship drought Atlas has endured dating back to 1951.

On an individual level Jaine’s two dreams are to seal a transfer to Europe in the future and to represent Colombia in a world cup. He sees himself playing in the English premier league given his speed, technical ability, and physicality. (Pochettino, Mourinho, Pep – take note!). As for the world cup, we know José Pékerman and his staff stay well informed on the performances of Colombian players in Liga MX (recent call ups include Luis Quiñones, Alexander Mejía, Oscar Murillo, and Stefan Medina) so Apertura 2017 will be a key season for Jaine to continue his development and display his skill on the pitch.

JB: André-Pierre Gignac (the french international who arrived in Liga MX after a distinguished career in France’s Ligue 1).

CC: Do you prefer to score or prevent a goal?

JB: Score! (watch his latest goal, he is a threat in the aerial game).

CC: Do you prefer to start or stop a counter attack?

JB: Stop a counter (spoken like a true defensive General!).

CC: Messi or Ronaldo?

JB: Ronaldo.

The season kicks off this Saturday night as Atlas pay a visit to León. Click here for the full schedule. We will be watching closely this season and wish our friend and true crack! a successful season! Thank you Jaine for taking the time to talk to us.